Libraries across Norfolk and Suffolk are joining forces with the NHS to help more people feel confident accessing healthcare online, as part of Get Online Week 2026, which runs from 19 to 25 October.
Library staff and volunteers in Great Yarmouth, Gorleston-on-Sea, Lowestoft and Beccles will be hosting free drop-in sessions, offering friendly, one-to-one support to help people get started with the NHS App.
Whether it’s setting up an NHS login for the first time, ordering repeat prescriptions, managing appointments or viewing health records, the sessions will help people discover how the NHS App can make managing their healthcare easier.
The sessions are open to anyone who would like a helping hand, whether they’re completely new to the NHS App, need help getting started or simply want to find out more about what it can do. No previous experience is needed.
Across Norfolk and Suffolk, particularly in rural and coastal communities, access to digital services and the confidence to use them can be a challenge. By offering practical support in familiar, welcoming local settings, the initiative aims to help more people benefit from digital healthcare and reduce barriers to accessing NHS services.
While traditional ways of accessing NHS services will continue to be available, the NHS App provides a simple and secure alternative, allowing people to manage aspects of their healthcare without needing to phone or visit their GP surgery.
The initiative forms part of a growing national partnership between the NHS and more than 1,100 public libraries in England, aimed at tackling digital exclusion and ensuring more people can benefit from digital health services.
Libraries are well placed to provide this support, offering trusted community spaces, free Wi-Fi and access to computers and other devices for people who may not have internet access or suitable technology at home.
Richard Watson, Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Strategy, Digital and Commissioning at NHS Norfolk and Suffolk ICB, said:
“We know that not everyone finds it easy to access services online, and we don’t want anyone in Norfolk and Suffolk to miss out on the benefits that digital technology can offer.
“Our local libraries are trusted places at the heart of their communities, making them ideal settings for people to get friendly, practical support at their own pace.
“This is about giving people more confidence and choice in how they manage their health and care, while making sure that those who need a little extra help can access it. I’d encourage anyone who would benefit from some support to pop along to one of the sessions.”
Councillor Pat Gould, Norfolk County Council’s Cabinet Member for Countryside, Coast and Culture, said:
“Libraries play a crucial role in supporting people to make the most of their lives, whether it’s through learning or getting advice. That’s why we are keen to work with the NHS, so that more people can benefit from using the health service app.”
Councillor June Mummery, Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet Member for Coastal Affairs, Communities and Public Health, said:
“It’s really important that no one is left behind when it comes to accessing health services online, so I’m pleased that local libraries across Suffolk are offering these free drop-ins.
“Libraries are at the heart of our communities, so where better to go for support from friendly, knowledgeable staff in a welcoming environment?
“I’d encourage everyone to take this opportunity to learn more about the benefits of using the NHS app.”
Health Innovation Minister James Frith said:
“Technology should make it easier for people to access the support they need, not create another barrier. The NHS App puts healthcare in people’s pockets, making it easier to order repeat prescriptions, manage appointments and access trusted NHS advice.
“By helping older people and others who may need extra support to use the app, these library sessions will make it easier for more people to manage their health and access the information they need. This is particularly important as we head into winter, when demand on the NHS increases and it is vital that people can access the right advice and support to stay well.
“This is an important part of making sure our NHS modernisation works for everyone. I’d encourage anyone who would like help setting up or using the NHS App to find out what support is available at their local participating library during Get Online Week.”
Where and when to get support
Free NHS App support sessions will be available at the following libraries during Get Online Week:
Lowestoft Library
Clapham Road South, Lowestoft, Suffolk NR32 1DR
Thursday 22 October, 9am to 1pm
Beccles Library
Blyburgate, Beccles, Suffolk NR34 9TB
Thursday 22 October, 2pm to 5pm
Gorleston-on-Sea Library
1 Lowestoft Road, Gorleston-on-Sea, Norfolk NR31 6SG
Friday 23 October, 9am to 1pm
Great Yarmouth Library
37–39 Market Place, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk NR30 1LX
Friday 23 October, 2pm to 5pm
People attending can get help at their own pace, with friendly staff and volunteers available to answer questions and guide them through using the NHS App.
Anyone unable to attend can find further information and support through the NHS App website, including step-by-step videos covering key services such as booking appointments and ordering prescriptions. Videos include captions and British Sign Language translation.
For more information, visit www.nhs.uk/nhs-app/help/.
About the NHS App and libraries partnership
NHS England is working with public libraries nationally to provide a sustainable, accessible way for people to access their health information in trusted local environments. The partnership supports the NHS 10 Year Health Plan’s ambition to ensure digital transformation improves access and inclusion.
About Get Online Week
Get Online Week is a national campaign helping people build the skills and confidence they need to get online safely, including accessing digital services such as the NHS App.
For more information about the NHS App, visit www.nhs.uk/nhs-app.